Which condition in dogs is associated with irritability and increased reactivity due to hormone imbalance?

• A. Cushing's Disease
• B. Hypothyroidism
• C. Hypoglycemia
• D. Learned Helplessness

Answer: (A)

Irritability and increased reactivity can arise when a dog’s hormonal balance influences brain function and stress responses. In Cushing's disease there is excess cortisol circulating in the body. Cortisol, a major stress hormone, can alter mood, raise anxiety, and make a dog more easily irritated or reactive to ordinary stimuli. That hormonal mechanism best explains irritability linked to a hormonal imbalance in dogs.

Hypothyroidism involves too little thyroid hormone and typically leads to lethargy, weight gain, and coat changes rather than heightened irritability. Hypoglycemia is about low blood sugar causing weakness or confusion rather than a chronic hormone imbalance. Learned helplessness is a behavioral condition from experience and environment, not a hormonal disorder.